How to Catch A Dragon
by Adam WallaceIllustrated by Andy Elkerton
Published by Sourcebooks Wonderland
on November 5, 2019
Genre: Children's, Picture Books
Length: 40 pages
Ages: 4 - 8 years
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Synopsis:
Do you have what it takes to catch a dragon?
The 'How to Catch' kids are off again, this time trying to catch a dragon as they chase him through Chinese New Year celebrations! Set in China during the Spring Festival, otherwise known as Chinese New Year, the wily dragon will have to avoid trap as the kids run through paper lanterns, red envelopes, fireworks, and more! Bonus Mandarin translation included in the back!
Dragons are a clever bunch,
They're difficult to catch.
You'll have to set the ultimate trap--But have you met your match?
Our Thoughts:
Our main character's family and friends are preparing for the Chinese New Year. He hears his mother mention that a dragon would bring health and fortune and that they are missing one, so off he goes in search of the elusive creature. Gathering up his friends, who help hang lanterns every year, he chases a long red tail through his festively decorated village.
This fun book will take you on a chase through a beautifully illustrated cultural holiday, leaving hints of popular traditions and decorations as the group of diverse friends follow a long red dragon tail through town, attempting to catch it at every turn. With bright colors and textured details, this picture book will keep little listeners occupied with its busy illustrations.
I enjoyed this more than How To Catch A Dinosaur but I wish there had been extra information about the cultural items and traditions mentioned in the poem, such as 'Fai Chun'. Also, while I think it's great that the Mandarin version of the poem (both the symbols and phonetics) was included at the back, there is absolutely no mention that the language actually is Mandarin. I only know for sure because I asked someone but a simple heading or footnote stating that it is a 'Mandarin translation' would have been helpful. There are also symbols on the banners throughout the story and if you don't know any Mandarin at all, you don't get to know what it says, which is a little disappointing for someone like me who is fascinated by languages.
I enjoyed this more than How To Catch A Dinosaur but I wish there had been extra information about the cultural items and traditions mentioned in the poem, such as 'Fai Chun'. Also, while I think it's great that the Mandarin version of the poem (both the symbols and phonetics) was included at the back, there is absolutely no mention that the language actually is Mandarin. I only know for sure because I asked someone but a simple heading or footnote stating that it is a 'Mandarin translation' would have been helpful. There are also symbols on the banners throughout the story and if you don't know any Mandarin at all, you don't get to know what it says, which is a little disappointing for someone like me who is fascinated by languages.
More from this author/illustrator:
How to Catch A Dinosaur
More picture books about Chinese New Year:
Looking for different dragon books? Try these!
Do Not Bring Your Dragon to the Library by Julie Gassman
Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin
The Dragon Hunters by James Russell
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